Melvin "Lyle" Hill, II, Surprise, AZ

Melvin “Lyle” Hill II of Arizona and Illinois, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on January 28, 2021 at age 78. Lyle was married for 52 years to his wife and best friend, Chris, with whom he raised two daughters, Nancy and Dana. Born in Peoria, Illinois to Melvin and Adron Hill, Lyle was the older brother to Susan (Bill) Wilkinson. He grew up in Peoria and attended Bradley University. After college, Lyle served in the United States Army from 1964-1967.

As a father and husband, Lyle was always available to provide support, humor, and encouragement and took pride in his wife and daughters’ scholastic and professional achievements.

Lyle made friends easily and enjoyed talking to anyone, including complete strangers. He liked being the person that everyone notices, and would crack jokes and wear loud shirts to attract attention; people delighted in his quick wit and many catch phrases. He was active in his community and belonged to many clubs and service organizations, including the Villa Park Fishing Club, Lombard Lions Club, and Villa Park Lodge #1113. A life-long Chicago Cubs fan and former season ticket holder, Lyle took great joy in seeing his beloved Cubbies win the World Series.

Lyle also enjoyed every hobby he tried. His favorites included hunting, fishing, golfing, and woodworking. He liked to travel and was proud that he had visited every state in the U.S. But when asked, he would often say that his proudest personal accomplishment was becoming an Eagle Scout at age 13.

Lyle is survived by his wife Chris, daughters Nancy and Dana, his sister Susan, many nieces and nephews, and friends.